Hazardous Waste at the University of Rochester is generated by teaching and research laboratories
as well as Physical Plant. The largest conainer of waste allowed in a laboratory is a 5-gallon size can. However,
most waste is collected in containers which are gallon size or less. Lab personnel are required to keep the containers
closed, labeled and in secondary containment. All labs are inspected periodically to make certain these procedures
are being followed. The nature of the waste generated varies from lab to lab and generally consists of the same
materials that are on the hazardous materials inventory for each lab. Waste generated by facilities operations
are typically paint related materials, defreasers, oils, lighting waste, and other building maintenance compounds.
Chemical Waste is centrally managed by the Hazardous Waste Management Unit located at 520 Intercampus
Drive. The building is a state-of-the-art 90-day storage facility whcih is inspected by New York DEC as well as
U.S. EPA. Waste generated by the University is brought to the building for temporary storage prior to off-site
disposal. Acid and bases are neutralized on site and two solvent recovery units are used to recycle selected solvents.
Selected containers of chemicals are listed on a chemical re-use list for distribution to labs at no charge in
order to minimize the cost of new chemicals and disposal. No outside waste is accepted. In addition, no Regulated
Medical Waste or radioactive materials are managed iat the facility.
All waste must be shipped from the central facility to a commercial disposal company every 90 days. During the storage period all waste is categorized and stored by chemical compatibility to minimize the risk of accident.
Compatible Flammable Liquids are bulked in 55-gallon size steel drums in a room that features ACO2 fire suppression system with heat rise detectors, static grounding, spark proof fixtures, explosive venting, and has negative air pressure compared to other storage areas of the building.
All fire detectors and safety shower/eye wash units are connected to the central secrity dispatch. The building
is monitored by a zoned system which will allow the dispatcher to know exactly where a problem is and what device
triggered the alarm. Security will make all the appropriate notifications as prescribed in the University's written
Emergency Response Plan. The floor is sealed with chemical resistant epoxy sealer.
The office area has separate environmental controls and is separated from the storage area by a 2 hour fire wall. The fresh air supply has a positive pressure to the rest of the building. The security and safety system can be monitored from the area. There are also adjoining locker and laundry areas.
Thjis new state-of-the-art facility has enabled the University to better manage its waste and reduce the potential of an accidental release to the environment. It represents a major commitment by the University to make certain its operations are conducted in the best manner possible.